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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How does Machiavelli define auxiliary forces?
(a) Those borrowed from other principalities to wage war.
(b) Extra manpower that may be called to active duty during a war.
(c) Women mercenaries who fight along side of men.
(d) The best insurance a prince has for his safety.

2. What does Machiavelli say the new prince can least afford?
(a) Cruelty.
(b) Executions.
(c) Excessive kindness.
(d) Disorder.

3. What does Machiavelli say the King of Naples and the Duke of Milan had in common?
(a) They both improved the laws in their dominions.
(b) They both had great skill in dealing with the nobles.
(c) They both lost their dominions in Italy.
(d) They both learned quickly how to rule effectively.

4. Why does Machiavelli insist that a prince recalled by the people after being conquered offers him no security?
(a) It is noble and, therefore, weak.
(b) It does not depend upon the prince himself for success.
(c) It is only a last ditch effort at establishing the dominion.
(d) It is probably only a stop-gap moment.

5. Which prince does Machiavelli say must be generous?
(a) One who is about to go to war.
(b) One who has excessive vices.
(c) One just coming into power.
(d) One who inherited his title.

Short Answer Questions

1. What dichotomy does Machiavelli present regarding goodness and vices in a prince?

2. Why should a new prince not disarm his people?

3. Machiavelli's political thought is influenced greatly by the ideas of what?

4. What does Machiavelli say is the only art expected of a prince?

5. What does Machiavelli see as an insurmountable chasm?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Machiavelli suggest a prince can be cruel and still be respected?

2. How does Machiavelli tell the prince to avoid assassination attempts against him?

3. What is Machiavelli's advice regarding unasked for counsel?

4. What is Machiavelli's position on neutrality? Explain.

5. Explain Machiavelli's views on rewards and punishments.

6. Why does Machiavelli say that war is the only art expected of a prince?

7. How can a prince gain a reputation for great accomplishments and generosity without bringing about his own ruin?

8. Because new princes are closely watched, what does Machiavelli say they must do?

9. Detail how Machiavelli says Italian princes lose their dominions.

10. Give examples of leaders who recognized the need for their own loyal troops.

(see the answer keys)

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